The Government has confirmed outbreaks of koi herpesvirus (KHV) disease in fish at sites in the UK. KHV is a serious viral disease that affects common and ornamental carp species, and is often fatal. Disease controls are currently in place at sites in Norfolk and Lancashire.
Fish affected can show the following signs, according to gov.uk, especially when water temperatures are between 16 and 28°C:
necrotic (white or brown) patches on the gills
rough patches on the skin and sloughing mucous
sunken eyes
Sites with KHV disease must undergo a formal monitoring programme, and contact the Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI) if owners suspect an outbreak. There is no risk to public health, the Government said.
If an outbreak is confirmed, sites must undergo a formal monitoring programme, which sees the FHI visit to identify evidence of the disease and ensure controls are in place.
The Government said sites with a confirmed outbreak must observe the following conditions:
No person may, without the previous consent in writing of the FHI, move any aquatic animal including eggs, and gametes, into, out of or within a confirmed designation area.
Disposal of dead aquatic animals, including eggs and gametes, must be by an approved method for disposal of Category 2 animal-by-product waste in compliance with local Environmental Health department requirements
Notify the Fish Health Inspectorate immediately should mortalities re-occur or spread to other waters within the designated area.
Notify the FHI in advance of all intended physical changes to sites within the designated area - such as site boundaries, number or size of waters, use of the site. FHI written permission will be required beforehand for all such changes.
All requests for consents required under this Confirmed Designation Notice must be submitted to the FHI with a minimum of 5 working days’ notice.
Disease controls are currently in place at Coston Lakes and Barford Lakes in Norfolk, and Castanet Lake in Lancashire.
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